A Must See Production Kaleidoscope: Fusion

In Habersham County, the performing arts are alive and well thanks in large part to the dedication of one woman, her team of teachers, and the students she has inspired for years.

On Saturday, February 28 at 7:00 p.m. at Habersham Central Performing Arts Center, The Clarkesville School of Dance, under the direction of Francie Keene, owner, will present Kaleidoscope:Fusion, a colorful view of the different styles of dance and music. There will be voice performances and a production number by Habersham Central High School from their upcoming show 7 Brides for 7 Brothers  this spring.

The concert will showcase dancers from the studio’s Junior, Intermediate, and Senior Company groups — students who train at an advanced level and devote many hours each week to rehearsals, conditioning, and technique. The program will feature a blend of styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, and lyrical dance, offering a performance designed to both entertain and inspire.

Behind the production is Francie Keene founder and director of the studio. Over the years, Keene has built a program known not only for quality instruction but also for its positive environment. Parents often describe the studio as a second home where dancers learn responsibility, confidence, and perseverance alongside their choreography.

“This studio belongs to the community as much as it does to me. These children grow up here, families volunteer, and the audiences support them,” Keene said with excitement. “The concert is more than a show - it's a celebration of what young people can accomplish when they’re encouraged.” 

Preparing for a company concert is no small task. Students rehearse after school, on weekends, and for months leading up to performance day. Each routine requires careful coordination of music, costumes, and staging, while dancers work to develop not only technique but also expression and storytelling through movement.

For the dancers, the concert represents both a reward and a milestone. Younger students look forward to performing on a large stage, while senior company members approach the evening with a mixture of excitement and reflection as they near graduation.

Emily McLeod, the production’s vocal coach, praised the singers and highlighted the growth she has seen throughout the season.

“It has been such a special experience, and I’m tremendously proud of the work Bella Ciochetti has done,” McLeod said. “God gave each of us a voice as unique as our fingerprints — a sacred signature and a living imprint of who we are. My role as a teacher is to protect that gift and help students keep it authentic.”

The title Kaleidoscope: Fusion reflects the goal of the performance — bringing together multiple styles and personalities into one cohesive show. Each piece highlights the unique strengths of the dancers while demonstrating the teamwork required to perform as a company.

Community members are encouraged to attend and support local arts and youth achievement. Beyond the choreography and costumes, the evening celebrates dedication, mentorship, and the confidence young people gain when they step onto a stage and realize what they are capable of accomplishing.

Tickets are available to purchase at the studio or online at clarkesvilleschoolofdance.ludus.com.